Sponsored Content
IHMM In-Person or Remotely Proctored Exams
The American National Standards Institute [ANSI] has approved Kryterion Remotely Proctored Exams for IHMM’s CHMM, CHMP, and CDGP exams. IHMM has been using the Kryterion Remotely Proctored Exams for the CSHM and CSMP exams since April 2020.
72% of Kryterion in-person testing centers have reopened. If you prefer the comfort and convenience of taking your exam from your home or office instead of at a Kryterion center, IHMM is ready to enroll you in a remotely proctored examination.
Please contact either Kortney Tunstall at [email protected] for the CHMM, CHMP, or CDGP exams or Kaylene Cagle at [email protected] for the CSHM or CSMP exams.
Tuesday, May 3, 2022
IHMM Today is an online publication of the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM)
are compiled from independent sources and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of IHMM.
IHMM Credential Recognition
Below you will see the credential badges that are now in each CHMM, CHMP, CDGT, CDGP, Student CHMM, CSHM, CSMP, and ASHM certificant’s MYIHMM account. Every IHMM certificant may use these badges, linked as those below are to their IHMM credential page, for their email signatures, business cards, and other social media applications. You’re justifiably proud of the accomplishment of having earned your credential and you can show the rest of the world. Simply right-click on the badge of choice, then save as to your computer, and then load it to wherever you want to use it, and please link that back to https://ihmm.org/.
IHMM Certificant Recognition
IHMM has completed inserting new credential badges in every certificant’s MYIHMM account. Everyone may access those badges for use in their email signatures, LinkedIn accounts, and other social media and communications media. With a link from your credential badge to the IHMM website [see above] you can not only stand out as an IHMM-certified professional, you can also promote IHMM credentials to others. Right-click on the badge of choice, save as to your computer, then load it to whatever medium you choose.
Throughout our certificant’s MYIHMM accounts are also now placed 10 Year, 20 Year, and 30 Year badges signifying their longevity as an IHMM certified professional.
IHMM has also added Distinguished Diplomates and Fellows of the Institute badges to the appropriate people in the MYIHMM database. These two badges will be accompanied by new lapel pins to be sent to each of those distinguished by holding these designations.
IHMM is in all 50 of the United States and in 47 countries around the World.
IHMM Credentials Accredited By
Need Help? On the IHMM website just click on the “NEED HELP?” button
and let us know what you need and the right person will get right back with you.
EC Publishes Restrictions Roadmap, Prioritizing Group Restrictions for the Most Harmful Chemical Substances
On April 25, 2022, the European Commission (EC) published a Restrictions Roadmap under the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (Restrictions Roadmap) that provides detailed information on all ongoing work on future restrictions under the European Union (EU) chemical legislation. The Restrictions Roadmap prioritizes group restrictions for the most harmful substances to human health and the environment, as set out in the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (Strategy). According to the EC’s press release, the Restrictions Roadmap includes a rolling list (Rolling List) of substances that will become the basis for the multiannual planning under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. The EC states that it will regularly review and update the Rolling List to ensure a balance between needed flexibility and commitment to ensure progress. For more information, please read the full memorandum.
CSHM and CSMP In Exam Development
As IHMM released the new CSHM and CSMP blueprints, now the CSHM Scheme Committee and CSMP Scheme Committee move on to the exam development phase of raising the standards for these two credentials.
These two scheme committees’ work is guided by a psychometrician. What is a psychometrician? A psychometrician is a type of scientist who studies measurements, or specifically, the measurement of people’s knowledge, skills, and abilities, also known as KSAs. Most psychometricians perform their work by developing tests and examinations that measure a person’s innate or learned KSAs. This is a key function in developing examinations as the psychometrician ensures that the questions [or items] being prepared for examinations perform assessments for professional credentials. IHMM employs a psychometrician to make sure that IHMM is developing examinations that are fair and valid. After all, it is important to be sure that any certification or licensing body using an examination to verify competence is certain that the examination really is measuring knowledge and skills required for competent performance.
Look for the new CSHM and CSMP examinations to be ready by the end of the Q3 or beginning of Q4 in 2022.
CSSM In Exam Development
As IHMM released the new Certified School Safety Manager [CSSM] blueprint with its presentation to the IHMM Board on March 25th, the CSSM-CSSS Committee now turns to create the CSSM exam.
The CSSM-CSSS Committee, https://ihmm.org/csss-cssm-committee/ is now creating the more than 350 questions that will be resident in an item bank to feed a 3-hour, 140 question examination for this credential. The committee has set the goal of completing the creation of the item bank and examination for Labor Day, 2022.
After completing the CSSM examination the committee will turn to create the CSSS blueprint and examination.
AHMM In Development
As IHMM released the new Associate Hazardous Materials Manager [AHMM] blueprint with its presentation to the IHMM Board on March 25th, the AHMM Scheme Committee now turns to create the AHMM exam.
The AHMM Scheme Committee, https://ihmm.org/ahmm-scheme-committee/ whose responsibilities are twofold: To develop credible certification examinations in accordance with the latest approved policies and procedures; and to recommend and maintain standards for recertification, to evaluate activities that may be claimed for recertification in accordance with the latest approved policies and procedures. Initially, IHMM will not seek accreditation for this credential until the population attracted to this new credential reaches a critical mass capable of sustaining the investment in accreditation, while this committee nonetheless is aware that accreditation will eventually be sought.
This entry-level hazmat credential is targeted for those Student CHMMs after graduation, or students who have completed their environmental or science oriented studies with no job experience, as well as former military personnel with less than three years experience in a hazmat MOS with no degree.
The AHMM Scheme Committee should complete its work by Q3 2022 and then IHMM will release this credential for application.
CPPS In Exam Development
As IHMM released the new Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist [CPPS] blueprint with its presentation to the IHMM Board on March 25th, the Microcredential Task Force now turns to creating the CPPS exam.
The Microcredential Task Force https://ihmm.org/microcredential-task-force/ is now creating the more than 350 questions that will be resident in an item bank to feed a 3-hour, 140-question examination for this credential. The Task Force recommended that this microcredential be available to all CHMMs and CSHMs in good standing with IHMM. The development of this microcredential came at a time when the Biden Administration unveiled its $65.3 billion plan to improve the U.S.’s pandemic preparedness strategy in the midst of COVID19 and as the country readies for any future biological threats.
The White House plans to funnel the $65.3 billion over seven to 10 years to invest in the country’s ability to respond “rapidly and effectively” to future epidemics and pandemics, as the current COVID-19 crisis has disrupted society and killed millions worldwide. “The cost of the pandemic prevention pales in comparison to the enormous cost – in lives and in economic cost – of a pandemic,” the administration said in a press release.
IHMM is a Strategic Partner of IATA
What You Need to Know About the Transport of Dangerous Goods By Air
Every year more than 1.25 million dangerous goods shipments are transported by air. With air cargo growth predicted at 4.9% every year over the next 5 years the number of dangerous goods shipments will rise significantly. With so many dangerous goods being shipped by air, safety regulations must be followed precisely. IATA helps identify the risks and works with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) to amend the regulations providing stakeholders with the most current guidelines on how to handle and ship dangerous goods safely.
Therefore, we published a FAQ article to help you get a better understanding of what you need to know about the transport of dangerous goods by air, this includes:
– What are dangerous goods
– What are the dangerous goods classes
– Who is involved in the transport of dangerous goods and what are their responsibilities
– How do I complete a dangerous goods declaration
– What to know about dangerous goods packaging
– How do you mark and label dangerous goods
– And much more…
Call for Volunteers – IHMM Sustainability Task Force
Do you have a background in ESG / Corporate sustainability? If you do, then Mark Bruce, CHMM, CSHM, Chair of the IHMM Sustainability Task Force, seeks your participation in the Task Force. See > https://ihmm.org/ihmm-sustainability-task-force/
The Sustainability Task Force is investigating the potential of creating an IHMM credential for ESG / Corporate Sustainability and making any recommendations toward that end to the IHMM Board of Directors.
If this growing arena of corporate attention interests you, please join us! Go to: https://ihmm.org/ihmm-sustainability-task-force/ and click on the Volunteer button.
IHMM Committee and Task Force volunteers earn 10 CMPs annually for volunteering.
IHMM Board Nominations Open
Heather Waldmann, CHMM, Chair of the IHMM Nominating Committee [https://ihmm.org/nominating-committee/], is pleased to announce the opening of the Board nominating season for 2022.
In 2022 the IHMM Nominating Committee solicits candidates for three [3] director positions that will be open on January 1, 2021. [1] Certified Dangerous Goods Professional [CDGP], [1] Certified Safety and Health Manager [CSHM], and [1] At-Large, that can be either a CHMM, CDGP, CHMP, CSHM, or CSMP.
The documents describing the nominations and elections process and forms for submitting nominations are here:
EPA Recognition of the IHMM CHMM as an Environmental Professional
IHMM’s Board approved an initiative to have the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognize the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager [CHMM] credential in the context of 40 CFR § 312.10, Definitions. The key element of this regulation includes,
“However, the Agency notes that any individual with a certification from a private certification organization where the organization’s certification qualifications include the same or more stringent education and experience requirements as those included in today’s final regulation will meet the definition of an environmental professional for the purposes of this regulation.”
IHMM has produced a crosswalk between 40 CFR § 312.10 Definitions and the CHMM Blueprint that documents how the EPA regulation aligns with the CHMM Blueprint and demonstrates that in each instance the blueprint meets or exceeds 40 CFR § 312.10 Definitions. The EPA definition of an Environmental Professional is in the Federal Register dated November 1, 2005 at page 66080. On that page is the instruction to private certifications being considered Environmental Professionals and how to compare 40 CFR § 312.10 to the certification.
National Small Business Week (May 2-5) – DOL Virtual Exhibit Featuring OSHA Small Business Resources
The Small Business Administration’s National Small Business Week is coming up on May 2-5, 2022. This annual event highlights the contributions of small businesses to the U.S. economy and points these businesses to resources to help them grow and comply with regulatory requirements. During the week, the Department of Labor (DOL) will have a virtual booth to highlight small business resources from OSHA, Wage and Hour Division, and other DOL agencies. OSHA will feature small business resources such as the On-Site Consultation Program and the OSHA/NIOSH Small Business Safety and Health Handbook.
Registration is open and free.
IHMM Fellows Becoming Mentors
IHMM Fellows Committee Chair Atanu Das, CHMM, is leading the effort within the IHMM Collaboration networking platform to provide instruction to the more than 75 IHMM Fellows in becoming mentors.
Given the extraordinary experience Fellows have, this is a unique opportunity for IHMM Fellows to help guide more recent certificants in their professional development activities.
IHMM’s Collaboration platform contains a “Mentor Match” module [see below at right] that allows mentors to signup designating the hours, number of mentees, subject areas, and length of time they wish to mentor – as well as allowing mentees to signup requesting assistance in specified areas. The mentor match module does the rest by matching mentors and mentees.
Thousands who drank water tainted by ‘forever chemicals’ can join class action suit against N.J. company
House Subcommittee Holds Hearing on FY 2023 Budget Request for EPA
EC Publishes Restrictions Roadmap, Prioritizing Group Restrictions for the Most Harmful Chemical Substances
U.S. Economy Shrinks 1.4% in First Quarter of 2022
Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back: The Biden Administration’s Revised NEPA Rules
AFFF and PFAS At Forefront of Federal Action This Week
The Future Is Now for TSCA Risk Management Rulemaking for Asbestos and Other Chemicals
PFAS Class Action Lawsuit Certified In New Jersey
EPA Renews Efforts to Abolish the Clean Air Act Affirmative Defense; Opportunities for Industry Involvement
EPA Posts Presentations from Meeting on New Chemicals Collaborative Research Program
EPA Seeks to Expand Clean Water Act Spill Response Planning to Hazardous Substances
Litigation Minute: The Coming Wave of PFAS Litigation
EPA Chrysotile Ban Likely To Mean Increased PFAS Use
Investigation: PFAS on our shelves and in our bodies
Glyphosate, explained
Scientists Call for Cap on Production to End Plastic Pollution
Plastic-Eating Enzyme Could Eliminate Billions of Tons of Landfill Waste
Nanoplastic Particles Love Company: Researchers Analyze Polyethylene Degradation in Environment
Notice of Intent To Suspend Dimethyl Tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA) Technical Registration
EPA Delivers on Three Water Commitments in the Agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap
Annual ‘Death on the Job’ report part of Workers’ Memorial Week
OSHA emphasis program to target silica hazards in cut stone, stone products manufacturing industry
New Standard Helps Organizations Prevent Workplace Injuries
Safety in the Balance: How Leaders Influence Desired Safety Outcomes
OSHA’s Most Cited Standards: How Does Your Compliance Program Stack Up?
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing PPE and Ensuring Its Use
Get Your Plan in Place to Reevaluate Industrial Hygiene Data
Health Experts and Healthcare Workers Call for Strong Chemical Safety Safeguards
#1 – Recertification Video
#2 Recertification Video
IHMM Recertification Videos
IHMM is pleased to release two YouTube instructional videos about navigating the IHMM recertification process. These step-by-step videos easily enable IHMM certificants to start and complete a recertification application.
While the full recertification cycle is 5 years, IHMM encourages all certificants to start a recertification application and add certification maintenance points as they are earned to make the final submission quick and easy to accomplish.
FREE US DOT PHMSA HMIT GRANT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATIONS AWARENESS TRAINING WORKSHOP – 24 IHMM CMPs
Courses are here> https://hazmatsociety.org/education-training/?tribe_paged=1&tribe_event_display=list&tribe-bar-date=2022-01-24&tribe-bar-search=NPETE
These workshops are offered with U.S. DOT PHMSA HMIT (Hazardous Materials Instructor Training) Grant support to the National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education (National PETE).
This training is FREE for employees and federal, state, county, and local government employees involved in DOT HazMat Shipping, Receiving and Handling via Ground, Air, and Vessel Transportation.
The workshop curriculum is in accordance with 49 CFR § 172.704 for General Awareness, Function-Specific, Safety, and Security Awareness training requirements.
Class size is limited to 10-15 students with mask/social distancing protocols, so act fast. Minimum of 6 attendees is needed to confirm the class.
Registration: Contact Mr. Raymond Davis, CHMM, IHMM Fellow, NPETE US DOT PHMSA HMIT Grant Project Coordinator/Instructor at [email protected]
Please provide Mr. Davis with the following registration information via email to [email protected]
Your name, Your company, Your company address/city/state/zip, Phone number, and Email
Upon receipt of your registration information, the address of the training location will be provided.
2022 National Safety Stand-Down for Fall Prevention
This year’s annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls will be held May 2-6. Visit the campaign webpage for updates.
As a reminder, anyone who wants to prevent hazards in the workplace can participate in the Stand-Down. Companies can conduct a Safety Stand-Down by taking a break to have a toolbox talk or another safety activity such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job specific hazards. Consider planning a socially/physically distanced stand-down that works for your workplace. See Highlights from the Past Stand-Downs.
NPDES BASIC PERMIT WRITERS’ COURSE
Virtual Guided Learning
May 5, 2022 – June 9, 2022
Registration Information
The U.S. EPA is pleased to announce the opening of registration for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Basic Permit Writers’ Virtual Guided Learning Courses starting on May 5, 2022, with separate morning and afternoon sessions running for five weeks.
The objective of this course is to provide the basic regulatory framework and technical considerations that support the development of wastewater discharge permits required under the NPDES program. The course was designed for permit writers with about six months to one year of experience in the NPDES program, but experienced permit writers wanting a refresher course and other water program staff or interested parties wanting to learn more about the NPDES program also are welcome.
The 5-week course will begin on Thursday, May 5, 2022. Participants should anticipate a time commitment of approximately 8-10 hours per week and should seek supervisor approval before signing up. The course is scheduled to conclude on June 9th, however a “rain date” of June 16th should be reserved by the participants in case of technical issues.
Each week, participants will have assigned “homework” consisting of NPDES online modules and permit exercises. These modules and exercises will then be discussed in a live virtual classroom setting on Tuesday and Thursday of each week. Participants will have the opportunity to join live office hour discussions with instructors and other participants each Tuesday as well.
Microsoft Teams will be utilized for the virtual classroom and can be accessed through the desktop application or a web browser. Course materials will be provided electronically on the Microsoft Teams classroom site for download by the participants prior to the start date.
As a foundational course, the training does not address in detail specialized topics such as industrial and municipal stormwater, concentrated animal feeding operations, and pesticide discharges. For more information on these specialized topics, please visit EPA’s NPDES website at www.epa.gov/npdes
Course Schedule and Logistics
A separate morning session and afternoon session are available for this course offering. Please see the registration page for each session for the agenda with dates and times.
There is no cost for the course. Registration is limited and available at:
NPDES Permit Writers’ Course – Virtual Guided Learning May 2022 (AM)
NPDES Permit Writers’ Course – Virtual Guided Learning May 2022 (PM)
Following registration, an email with further instruction will be provided.
For any questions related to this announcement, please contact Sean Ramach at [email protected] or (202) 564-2865.
Microsoft Teams will be utilized for the virtual classroom and can be accessed through the desktop application or a web browser. Course materials will be provided electronically on the Microsoft Teams classroom site for download by the participants prior to the start date.
Creating the Water Workforce of the Future: Webinar Series
Retaining a Strong and Resilient Utility Workforce
May 4, 2022
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time
Register Here
As we all know, the water utility sector faces real challenges – not only to recruit a strong and resilient workforce but also to retain and cultivate these individuals once they are on board. Past webinars in this series have focused on ways in which utilities are using innovative strategies to attract workers. This webinar will focus on what happens next. You’ll hear from two leading utilities that are ensuring their employees have the right training, career progression opportunities, and other incentives to help them succeed and advance in their careers at the utility, not just in their current job.
Please join us on May 4th to hear and learn from two outstanding water utility managers.
This webinar is part of an ongoing webinar series hosted by EPA, in partnership with leading water sector organizations around the country. More information on this webinar series can be found at
https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-water-infrastructure/water-sector-workforce-webinars
Moderator
- Jim Horne, U.S. EPA
Speakers
- Janet Barrow, Director of Human Resources and Administration, WaterOne, Johnson County, Kansas
- Gerard Yates, Deputy General Manager, Central Utah Water Conservancy District
Attendance is free! Please register here:
https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_MNYdt20WTZaPuCgcVqXePg
Domestic Chemical Regulation and
Achieving Circularity
Wednesday, May 18, 2022
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (EDT)
Register Today
A circular economy requires new thinking about what products we make, from which materials we make them, and where products go at the end of their useful life. An important but often overlooked aspect of new product development is an understanding of the consequences of the product’s chemical composition and the end-of-life implications of the decisions made at the front end of the process. Working within this framework plays a critical role in building a resilient, dependable, and sustainable system that fosters innovation to develop a circular economy.
Register now to join Lynn L. Bergeson, Richard E. Engler, Ph.D., Kate Sellers, and Mathy Stanislaus, as Bergeson & Campbell, P.C. (B&C®) presents “Domestic Chemical Regulation and Achieving Circularity.”
Topics Covered:
- Achieving sustainability and the promise of the circular economy
- Defining sustainable chemistry under the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act
- Federal policy and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulatory shifts intended to support sustainability and circularity
- Transitioning chemicals from research and development (R&D) platforms into the market
- Changes to TSCA and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) that affect chemical innovation
Sponsored Content
Annual IHMM Excellence in EHS Management Award
Each year IHMM is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements and distinction of the CSHM, CSMP, or ASHM that has made a worthy contribution to the communities of practice and the profession.
This award is usually given at the annual National Safety Council Congress.
Nominations begin in March and end in July. Make your nomination here.
National Safety Council
IHMM is a member of the National Safety Council and is pleased to bring this important information to all of our certificants.
American Society of Safety Professionals
IHMM is a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals and is pleased to bring this important information to all of our certificants.
ASSP News
Improper Wear, Comfort and the Evolution of FRC
Prevention Through Design With Limited Resources: It’s a Mindset
Mitigating Liability and Managing Safety on Multiemployer Work Sites
How to Choose a Safety Management System and Show Benefit to Your Company
Q&A: Why Your Safety Management System Needs Prejob Briefings
4 Common Objections Safety Managers Hear and How to Overcome Them
ASSP Webinars
Get Ready for Safe + Sound Week!
Mark your calendars! Safe + Sound Week will take place from August 15-21, 2022. Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. Registration for Safe + Sound Week opens in early July. The Save the Date is available to download in both English and Spanish. We look forward to your participation!
Lead With Safety
Management Leadership means an organization’s management provides the leadership, vision, and resources needed to eliminate hazards, protect workers, and continuously improve workplace safety and health. Managers, we encourage you to take the Management Leadership challenge and Lead With Safety!
- Identify a pressing safety issue in your workplace.
- Take one or more steps to address the issue in your workplace.
Download your challenge coin and share how you #LeadWithSafety on social media.
Show Your Support
Visibly demonstrate and communicate your safety and health commitment to workers and others. Download the Management Leadership Partner Graphic , add your organization’s logo, and share it on your organization’s social media account on Tuesday, March 29.
Collaborate With Safe + Sound on the Partner Seminar Series
The Partner Seminar Series provides the opportunity for Safe + Sound partners to come together to share knowledge and best practices for safety and health.
We will be focusing on finding and fixing hazards from April to June. Do you have an idea for a topic for the next partner seminar series? Email [email protected].
Check out these past webinars for inspiration!
- Finding and Fixing Hazards/Near Misses
- American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers: Developing a Metrics Program Aimed on Focusing on What’s Important
- Worker Participation/ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- National Safety Council: Driving Employee Participation in Safety through Representation
Download the Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs
The Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs (in Spanish) is available for download! The Recommended Practices, which are designed to be used in a wide variety of small and medium-sized business settings, present a step-by-step approach to implementing a safety and health program.
IHMM GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
Beltway Buzz – Ogletree Deakins
Senator Asks for Reprise of Federal Contractor “Blacklisting” Order. On April 26, 2022, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) wrote a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to “sign an Executive Order preventing companies that violate federal labor laws from contracting with the federal government.” Of course, this sounds a lot like former president Barack Obama’s Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces executive order, which was rescinded by former president Donald Trump (and whose implementing regulations were repealed by the U.S. Congress in 2017 pursuant to the Congressional Review Act). There are no indications at this time that President Biden is planning to act on this request, but workplace policy watchers have always thought that some “blacklisting” component for federal contractors has always been a possibility in this administration, so this bears watching. In particular, if the Democrats lose the U.S. House of Representatives in November’s midterm elections, relying on the president’s executive authority as a policymaking tool could be an attractive option for the second half of President Biden’s term.
NLRB, Lawmakers, Seek More Money. The Buzz has recently documented the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) challenge with handling an increase in organizing petitions while operating under a stagnant budget. With this challenge in mind, this week 149 members of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter on April 28, 2022, to House Appropriations Committee leaders requesting a budget for the Board of at least $368 million for the 2023 fiscal year (beginning October 1, 2022). This would be an increase of $94 million from current levels. Notably, the letter also requests that any funding legislation remove a long-standing provision that prohibits the Board from promulgating any administrative directive or regulation providing for electronic voting in union representation elections.
NLRB GC Wants Coordination with FMCS. In her continuing efforts to collaborate with other federal agencies, NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo issued a memorandum on April 27, 2022, instructing regional directors to “integrate the services of the FMCS [Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service] more directly into our processes.” The memorandum directs regions to provide parties (i.e., employers and employees) with notice of FMCS’s services relating to collective bargaining of an initial contract and cases involving allegations of bad-faith bargaining. The memorandum also instructs regional directors to consider requiring FMCS-sponsored training and/or involvement in collective bargaining as potential remedies in unfair labor practice cases.
House Committee Welcomes EEOC and OFCCP Leaders. On April 27, 2022, the House Education and Labor Committee’s Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee conducted an oversight hearing on the practices and policies of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). Amidst much political back-and-forth, the Buzz noted a few highlights:
- EEOC Chair Charlotte Burrows emphasized that she believes employee pay and hours worked data collected via the EEO-1 form would be useful to the Commission’s mission.
- The tension between Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the NLRB’s expansive definition of protected concerted activity remains a thorny legal (and political) issue.
- OFCCP Director Jenny Yang singled out the construction industry as a top enforcement priority, and she noted that the recently enacted infrastructure law would likely lead to a significant increase in the number of construction employers that will fall under OFCCP’s jurisdiction.
POTUS Withdraws OSHRC Nominee. On April 25, 2022, President Biden withdrew the nomination of Susan Harthill to be a member of the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC), which adjudicates workplace safety and health disputes between the U.S. Department of Labor and employers. Harthill was first nominated in September 2021, and her nomination was twice approved by the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. With the withdrawal of Harthill’s nomination, the three-member review commission will continue to operate with Obama-appointee Cynthia L. Attwood and Trump-appointee Amanda Wood Laihow.
Army Corps of Engineers Proposes Changes in Occupational Safety and Health Programs for Federal Employees
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Safety and Health Requirements Manual (EM 385-1-1) is the gold standard for Safety and Occupational Health regulations. The manual holds a long history dating back to 1941 and is designed to facilitate the standardization of all safety programs. The EM 385-1-1 prescribes the safety and health requirements for all Corps of Engineers activities and operations. The USACE is soliciting comments on the proposed revisions to EM 385-1-1. USACE intends to update the manual and periodically thereafter, to reflect such public input, experience, and innovation. The agency will address significant comments received in the next revision of this manual.
This is an opportunity for IHMM to expand the recognition of the CSHM already cited in the ACE manual, as well as expand recognition of the CHMM.
The current manual may be seen here.
Specifically, USACE is soliciting assistance in the form of “data, comments, literature references, or field experiences, to help clarify the policy requirements for implementing Safety and Occupational Health activities” for both USACE and contractor personnel. More information on the nature of USACE needs is available in the notice.
The deadline for submitting written comments on the draft is June 13, 2022.
Notice of Public Meetings in 2022 for International Standards on the Transport of Dangerous Goods
The PHMSA Office of Hazardous Material Safety (OHMS) will host public meetings in advance of three international meetings to allow the public to give input on current proposals being considered by the United Nations Sub-Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UNSCOE TDG) and the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Dangerous Goods Panel (DGP). These international meetings include:
- The 60th session of the UNSCOE TDG, scheduled for June 27 to July 6, 2022, in Geneva, Switzerland.
- The ICAO DGP Working Group 22, tentatively scheduled for November 21–25, in Montreal, Canada.
- The 61st session of the UNSCOE TDG, scheduled for November 28 to December 6, 2022, in Geneva, Switzerland.
Each of these public meetings will be held approximately two weeks before the corresponding international meeting. Specific information for each meeting, including date, time, conference call-in number, and details for advance registration will be posted when available on the PHMSA website under “Upcoming Events.” These meetings will be virtual, with concurrent in-person sessions possible, pending public health guidelines.
The Federal Register announcement can be found here: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2022-03-03/pdf/2022-04435.pdf utm_source=federalregister.gov&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list
FEDERAL CREDENTIAL RECOGNITION – CALL TO ACTION – Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act
CALL TO ACTION – Representative Spanberger of Virginia’s 7th Congressional District has drafted legislation entitled, H.R. 2171, “Freedom To Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act.” This legislation expands the provisions of existing law with respect to the allowable uses of Section 529 education tuition accounts to include most expenses paid by the holders of private professional certifications. We need you to contact your House and Senate members to ask them to co-sponsor this legislation.
CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE
You can support this effort with your voice and message. Go here> https://ihmm.org/45-in-5-task-force/ and fill out your contact information where provided and help to pass H.R. 2171/S. 905.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SOCIETY
IHMM and HMS
The graphic to the left illustrates the relationship between IHMM and HMS. IHMM formed HMS to serve IHMM’s certificants. IHMM offers a variety of professional credentials and HMS creates education and training programs to serve the applicants and certificants of those credentials.
HMS Makes Finding Courses to Earn CMPs Easy
Every year more than 1,600 IHMM certificants have to recertify their credentials, evidenced their continuing commitment to improvement and learning to elevate their professional credential.
Earning Certification Maintenance Points [CMPs] is illustrated under Recertification of Your Credential, that includes the Recertification Claims Manual – Appendix A, that details all of the ways a certificant may earn CMPs > https://ihmm.org/recertification-claims/
Having mastered that manual, how does an IHMM certificant find courses to earn CMPs?
HMS has made that simple and easy.
- Go to https://hazmatsociety.org/education-training/
- Scroll down until you see a row of buttons…click on the CMPs button
The system will then generate all of the courses on the HMS E&T platform with IHMM CMPs already attached.
The next developments by the HMS E&T committee will refine available courses’ CMPs by individual credential!
Linking IHMM and HMS Exam Training
Every IHMM credential page has a section providing guidance on Exam Preparation.
In each credential’s Exam Preparation section is the graphic at left, linked to the section of the Hazardous Materials Society [HMS] website where the applicant can find the exam prep courses being offered to assist the applicant with preparing for the IHMM exam.
If you are a vendor offering exam prep courses and your prep course is on the HMS site, IHMM applicants will find it. If you do not have an exam prep course on the HMS site, no applicant will find it.
Click on the graphic at the left, from the CHMM Exam Preparation page, and see where it takes you. Is your prep course there?
Make your IHMM credential exam prep courses visible to IHMM applicants by contacting Gene Guilford at [email protected]
Applications for the 2022 HMS Scholarship Awards Now Open
The HMS scholarship award is given annually to undergraduate and graduate students whose academic program and research studies have the potential to address the most serious issues in handling hazardous materials, dangerous goods, environmental issues, health & safety challenges. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in accredited U.S. academic institutions.
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT SCHOLARSHIP AWARD APPLICATIONS IS December 1, 2022. All submissions and associated materials must be submitted using the online form.
Scholarship Winners Will Be Announced at the HMS Annual Meeting.
For More Information, Visit > https://hazmatsociety.org/scholarship/
Donate to HMS
One of the most important projects of the Hazardous Materials Society is our Scholarship Program.
HMS wants to make it as easy as possible for those who cannot always afford to participate in pursuing certification, or keeping up with professional development, or attending great conferences and receiving outstanding training. HMS does not solicit contributions from the general public. HMS does ask IHMM’s certificants and their companies and our education and training vendors to consider a contribution.
Here, through your generosity, you can make a difference in promoting the ability of those who can afford it least to become participants in our communities of practice.
It’s never too late to make a difference, so don’t let this opportunity to make a difference pass you by. Please consider a tax-deductible donation of $250, $500 or what you can to help build HMS’s effort to help others in our communities of practice.
RCM&D Professional Liability Insurance
HMS is proud to have partnered with RCM&D to be able to offer an outstanding comprehensive professional liability insurance program to IHMM certificants. Here, you will find information about this important program offering Environmental Consultants and Engineers Professional Liability coverage. This coverage is intended to add protection for loss stemming from actual or alleged negligent acts, errors and omissions in performing professional services.
For more information see > https://hazmatsociety.org/professional-liability-insurance/
Member Benefits of Hazardous Materials Society
99% of IHMM certificants are aware of the Hazardous Materials Society, which we appreciate. IHMM established the Hazardous Materials Society in order to support and provide services to IHMM certificants.
Did You Know?
Your company’s membership dues for Associate Membership in the Hazardous Materials Society (HMS) are 100% tax-deductible and your participation directly supports scholarship and education/training opportunities for professionals working in hazmat and EHS. Joining as an Associate Member expresses your commitment and your company’s leadership in giving back to our professional community. Join today to claim your tax deduction for the 2020 tax year while expressing your company’s professional affiliation and accessing tools for your marketing and business development plans.
To learn more about what HMS is doing now and what they are planning for the future, please see the new Member Benefits page here.
In February of 2020, the World Health Organization’s director-general has declared a public health emergency of international concern over the ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. On March 13, 2020 President Trump declared a national emergency for the United States. IHMM and HMS’ first concern is with the safety and health of all of us; our staff and families, colleagues, certificants and members. We will update this page regularly as credible, authoritative information is available.
INFORMATION FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, PUBLIC HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, AND LABORATORIES.
Vaccine Data Dashboard. We have a specific dashboard dedicated to state vaccination plans, updated daily. For each state, you’ll find:
Current distribution phase,
A brief overview of a state plan,
Current and future eligible populations, and
Links to state documentation.
A Collaborative Culture
There are 682 different conversations going on in the IHMM/HMS Collaboration platform this week.
A collaborative culture is important for every business but is especially important for our hazardous materials, dangerous goods, environment, health, and safety communities of practice. Do you have a problem you need to solve and want the opinions of your colleagues? This is where we come together to help each other.
IHMM credentialed professionals are at the top 1% of their professions and their reach is global. We are at the forefront of environmental protection, health, and safety and this is where collaborating with the best people in their fields, always willing to help one another, lessens the stress of our jobs, and where we strive as a team to make a difference of which we are proud.
We opened COLLABORATION to enable thousands of certificants and supporters to collaborate together. You can collaborate here.
Access to COLLABORATION is through the same username/password you use to access your MYIHMM account. Having a problem? Contact Jimmy Nguyen at [email protected]
Retiring? IHMM Invites You to Become an Emeritus
You may have decided, after a long and successful career, to retire from active daily duty. Congratulations. That doesn’t mean you have to completely disengage from your profession. IHMM is pleased to offer Emeritus status to all certificants who will no longer be actively engaged in their communities of practice but who still want to stay in touch. Please let us know when you’re approaching that decision and we will assist you in the credential transition.
Please contact Jim Drosdak at [email protected] and he’ll be happy to help you.
Columbia Southern University
The Hazardous Materials Society [HMS] is a partner of Columbia Southern University. Columbia Southern University is an online university based in Orange Beach, Alabama, that strives to change and improve lives through higher education by enabling students to maximize their professional and personal potential.
A subsidiary of Columbia Southern Education Group, CSU offers online degree programs at the associate, bachelor, master, doctorate or certificate levels in a multitude of areas such as occupational safety and health, fire administration, criminal justice, business administration, human resource management, health care administration and more. CSU also features undergraduate and graduate certificate programs to provide focused training in specialized areas for adult learners.
Click on the CSU graphic at left and learn more about the professional development and degree program opportunities at CSU.
IHMM CONFERENCES FOR 2022
IHMM will attend and support a number of conferences and trade shows throughout 2022, virtually as well as in-person as COVID issues allow. Below are some of the conferences IHMM will support in 2022.
Are there conferences you believe IHMM should attend that do not appear here? If so, let us know by sending an email to [email protected]
The College and University Hazardous Materials Management Conference
August 7-11, 2022
Frisco, TX
National Safety Council Congress & Expo
September 19-21, 2022
San Diego, CA
2022 FET Environmental Conference
October 25-27, 2022
Pewaukee, WI
VENDOR ALERT
IHMM had a record number of applications in 2021 – 704. In 2021 IHMM delivered the largest number of examinations since 2016 – 477. IHMM has 975 students in the pipeline moving through applications and examinations. IHMM has 358 students taking examinations right now. IHMM has another 546 students headed to take examinations.
Are you seeing this business as a vendor of education and training services?
Contact IHMM Executive Director Eugene A. Guilford, Jr., CAE, at [email protected]
IHMM has a companion organization for which education and training programs are presented and delivered. The Hazardous Materials Society is IHMM’s Professional Association and HMS’ education and training website can be found here. These events are produced independently of IHMM, and their providers have no access to IHMM certification examinations or program information other than that which is publicly available.
IHMM AFFILIATIONS
9210 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 470
Rockville, Maryland, 20850
www.ihmm.org | [email protected]
Phone: 301-984-8969 | Fax: 301-984-1516